Sub-Navigation

History of RWTH Aachen University and the School of Business and Economics

Innovation Coupled with Tradition

Martin Braun

RWTH Aachen University is a leader in shaping the future of our globalized world, and is gaining increasing international recognition as a place where innovative solutions to the global challenges of tomorrow are developed. Established in 1870 with the grand name of "Königliche rheinisch-westfälische Polytechnische Schule zu Aachen", RWTH Aachen proudly continues to build on its 140-year long tradition – a tradition which not only represents a solid scientific and academic foundation but also a commitment to the future: an international and professional focus combined with maximum quality is part of the characteristic approach to the University's research and teaching.

On October 10, 1870, the academic staff consisted of 32 professors, who were teaching 223 students. Nowadays, RWTH Aachen University comprises more than 500 professors, who are teaching about 42,298 students in over 144 programs of study. With over 260 institutes, chairs, and research departments spread over nine schools/faculties, RWTH Aachen is one of Europe's leading centers of science and research.

When the 9 German winners of the 'Initiative for Excellence' competition were announced in October 2007, RWTH Aachen University was proud to be amongst them, with its concept for the future entitled 'RWTH 2020- Meeting Global Challenges'. This concept will ensure that RWTH remains highly competitive in the national and international academic arena.

The interlinks between academia and the industry are many and varied: RWTH Aachen University is a significant economic factor, attracting both small as well as large and well-known companies to the region. The University itself is an attractive employer for people who live in and around Aachen.

RWTH Aachen University is proud to be an integral part of Aachen - a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, located where three different countries converge, rich in fascinating history and tradition, yet always eager to welcome creative and globally-aware ideas and people.

A Key Player Right from the Start: The School of Business and Economics

Martin Braun

Right from the onset of RWTH Aachen University’s teaching and research activities, the Economic and Business Sciences have always played a special role. Back in 1870, a Chair of National Economics and Commerce was established. Due to the increasingly closer interplay of technology and economics, further Chairs were established, such as Business Administration (1961), Statistics and Business Mathematics (1962), International Technical Cooperation (1963) and Operations Research (1967).

Since its creation in 1986, the independent School of Business and Economics has continued to attract growing numbers of students.